Triangle From Spider Guard

Submission Gi only

The triangle from spider guard is a gi-based submission where the practitioner transitions from spider guard (sleeve grips with feet on biceps) into an inverted or angled position to lock a triangle choke. It capitalizes on the opponent's posture being broken and one arm being controlled deeper than the other, creating the arm-in/arm-out configuration needed for the triangle.

Quick Reference

Key principles

  • · Create asymmetry by pulling one sleeve grip deeper while pushing the other bicep away with your foot to isolate the arm-in/arm-out positioning.
  • · Use your spider guard hooks to off-balance the opponent forward, making it difficult for them to posture and defend the leg entry.
  • · Angle your hips off-center (approximately 30-45 degrees) before locking the triangle to achieve a tighter finish across the neck.
  • · Maintain sleeve control on the trapped arm throughout the transition to prevent the opponent from pulling it free.
  • · Anticipate the opponent stacking by keeping your hips mobile and being ready to follow their movement with an angle adjustment or sweep.

Execution

  1. 1 From spider guard, pull one sleeve grip deep across your centerline while extending the opposite foot into their bicep to create the arm-in/arm-out configuration.
  2. 2 Release the pushing foot from the bicep and swing that leg over the opponent's head and neck, using your core to hip-escape and angle your body perpendicular to them.
  3. 3 Lock a triangle by placing the back of your knee over your opposite ankle, trapping their head and one arm inside.
  4. 4 Release the sleeve grips, grab the back of their head to break posture, squeeze your knees together, and extend your hips to finish the choke.
  5. 5 If they resist by posturing, use the still-connected sleeve grip to pull them back down or transition to an armbar on the trapped arm.

Common mistakes

  • × Attempting the triangle without first creating clear arm asymmetry, resulting in both arms being inside and no choke pressure on the neck.
  • × Failing to angle off to the side before locking the triangle, which allows the opponent to stack and pass while you remain flat on your back.
  • × Releasing sleeve grips too early during the transition, giving the opponent the chance to retract their arm and posture out before the legs are locked.

Do it from

Positions and situations where the Triangle From Spider Guard shows up.

Show 1
Inverted Guard